Albuquerque, N.M. – A sharp drop in overnight temperatures is expected to bring a hard freeze to parts of northern and central New Mexico early Tuesday, threatening crops, gardens, and outdoor plumbing from the Upper Rio Grande Valley to the Estancia Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a Freeze Warning is in effect from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m. Tuesday for the Upper Rio Grande Valley, Estancia Valley, Far Northeast Highlands, and the San Agustin Plains. Temperatures could plunge as low as 25°F, with widespread frost and hard freeze conditions likely.
In the Estancia Valley, residents should also brace for strong west winds up to 50 mph through 7 p.m. Monday, creating hazardous crosswinds for high-profile vehicles on U.S. 285 and NM 41. In San Agustin Plains, gusty conditions Monday afternoon will be followed by a freeze early Tuesday, with lows near 30°F.
Gardeners and farmers in the affected areas—including Taos, Las Vegas, Moriarty, and Quemado—should take immediate action to protect sensitive vegetation and insulate outdoor pipes. Unsecured outdoor items may be blown over in windy areas.
Freeze Warnings remain in effect through Tuesday morning, and additional alerts may be issued if colder air persists.
